Can you think of a better way to discover the secrets of this North African country than with a driving tour through Morocco? Driving is the best way to immerse yourself in its history, explore its culture and be amazed by the wonders of its gastronomy.
Traveling by car is one of the best options to fully immerse yourself in a country and tour it at your own pace. And this is especially true when talking about Morocco, because the Arab, Berber and African influences are well reflected in its architecture, gastronomy and traditions.
What’s more, taking a road trip through Morocco is also a wise decision because of the varied nature of its geography. You will find rugged mountains, golden deserts and coasts along both the Atlantic and the Mediterranean Seas. Want to know the must-see stops for a one-week trip? Take note!
Day 1: start your Morocco driving tour in Marrakech
Marrakech, also known as the Red City, is the starting point of this driving tour in Morocco. The name is no coincidence, because all the houses and buildings are painted in this color. And not simply because of taste, but because the city's regulations require everything to be red ochre like the color of the earth.
The Jemaa el-Fna Square is a good place to start your visit to Marrakech, because there you can immerse yourself in its history. In addition, there is a lot of atmosphere, you will find a host of vendors and street performers. You should also check out the Majorelle Garden, a real oasis of peace in the middle of the city which is famous for its vegetation and blue architecture.
Don't leave Marrakech without tasting the local cuisine in any Moroccan restaurant. Tagine, couscous and traditional sweets, such as almond pastries, are all to be found here.
Day 2-3: Sahara Desert & Erg Chebbi
Your driving tour of Morocco can continue to Merzouga, the gateway to Erg Chebbi. You will be surrounded by towering golden dunes that rise to impressive heights. One of the best things you can do is to simply walk along its ridges and let yourself be enveloped by the desert. In addition, the panoramic views from the top of the dunes are spectacular, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Want to enjoy a unique experience? Then, we recommend you spend the night in a Berber camp under the stars. They are located in strategic areas among the dunes and offer all the basic comforts for you to enjoy your night.
In addition to exploring Erg Chebbi, you can opt for a number of other exciting activities. If you go sandboarding, you can glide across the dunes on a sandboard. And if you are an adrenaline-seeker, take a route in an all-terrain vehicle or quadbike to reach the most remote places in the desert.
Day 4: Todra Gorge and Dades Valley
After enjoying a unique experience in the desert, your drive through Morocco should continue eastward. The Todra Gorge is located on the Todra River and is a gorge carved by water over millions of years. You will be amazed by the cliffs that rise on both sides of the river, because they create a narrow and deep canyon.
The Dades Valley is very popular for its lunar landscapes and picturesque Berber villages. You will be able to walk through the valley, visit the ancient Kasbahs and the oases that dot the valley, such as Skoura. This is a great place to have a picnic by the river.
Day 5-6: Continuation of the Morocco driving tour in Fez
Fez, the Imperial City, is one of the cultural jewels of the country and a must on your driving tour of Morocco. Two days will be enough time to explore the city, so make a note of your stops!
- Medina of Fez el-Bali: one of the largest and best preserved medinas in the Arab world. You will be fascinated by its narrow cobblestone streets, where time seems to stand still. And the wondrous medieval architecture of its mosques, madrasas and palaces.
- Souks and craft workshops: in the souks of Fez you will find a wide variety of products, such as spices, fabrics, ceramics or leather. In the artisan workshops you will be able to see local artisans working on their traditional crafts.
- Madrasa Bou Inania and Nejjarine Museum: the Madrasa Bou Inania is a masterpiece of Islamic art, full of mosaics, stucco and carved wood. Also visit the Nejjarine Museum of Wood Arts and Crafts, located in a restored former caravanserai.
Day 7: Chefchaouen, The Blue City
Your drive through Morocco ends in Chefchaouen. Its picturesque blue houses mean it is known in the country as The Blue City, which also has a very quiet and relaxed atmosphere. Here you can visit its small alleys, its squares and take a stroll through the medina. Uta el-Hammam square is the heart of the city, where you will find a number of cafes to relax in.
And you can't leave the city without visiting the Outa el-Hammam Mosque. You can enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the Rif Mountains.
This driving tour of Morocco will be much easier and tailored to your needs if you rent a car in Marrakech with OK Mobility. You can tour the country at your own pace and make this trip an experience you will never forget.
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